In Case Of Fire - Hyundai KONA Electric Emergency Response Manual

6. In case of fire

6.1 Firefighting Operations
Strict precautions must be taken while conducting firefighting operations due to following
Reasons:
• Lithium-ion Polymer batteries contain gel electrolyte that can vent, ignite, and produce
sparks when subjected to temperatures above 300°F.
• Vehicle may burn rapidly with a flare-burning effect.
• Even after the high-voltage battery fire appears to have been extinguished, renewed or
delayed fire can occur.
- Use a thermal imaging camera to ensure the high voltage battery is completely cooled
before leaving the incident.
- Always advise fellow emergency responders and civilians that there is a risk of the battery
re-ignition.
- In a fire, submersion or a collision that has compromised the high voltage battery, store the
vehicle in an open area with no exposure within 50 feet. Alternatively, a damaged vehicle
or battery pack may be stored in a barrier of earth, steel, concrete, or solid masonry.
• A burning battery could release hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide
gasses. Use NIOSH/MSHA approved full-face self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
with full protective gear. Even if the high-voltage battery pack is not directly involved in a
vehicle fire, approach the vehicle very carefully.
6.2 Extinguishers
• Small fires that do not involve the high voltage battery should be extinguished using an
ABC fire extinguisher. (ex. Fire caused by wiring harnesses, electrical components, etc.)
• Do not attempt to extinguish fires that involve the high voltage battery with small amounts
of water as this can result in electrocution. Fires that involve the high voltage battery
should be extinguished using large amounts of water (Minimum 2,650 Gallons) to cool the
high voltage battery. Fire fighters should not hesitate to pour larger amounts of water on
the vehicle in such scenarios. Make sure the battery is fully cooled to avoid fire re-ignition.
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